Today in NBA Sneaker History: LeBron James Takes Out Kobe in the Nike Zoom LeBron V

One of this Christmas Day's biggest NBA match-ups is the Los Angeles Lakers hosting the Miami Heat. With Kobe back in action and LeBron in top form, this can't-miss game will add yet another chapter to basketball's biggest friendly rivalry. Anytime you have both Bryant and James out there on the court, it's guaranteed to be a thrilling show. Coming into the December 25th match up, the Miami Heat have one of the best records in the league, while the Lakers are second-to-last in the Pacific Division. Although it may seem one sided on paper, this game could wind up being one of the best presents you'll receive.

Six years ago today, LeBron James was still with the Cleveland Cavaliers, while Kobe was in his prime, playing in all 82 games of the season for just one of four times in his career. The Cavaliers hosted the Lakers on December 20, 2007, and the pre-Heat and pre-championship ring LeBron devastated Los Angeles with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. The Cavs squeaked by with a 94-90 win, but LeBron's individual numbers eclipsed Kobe's 21 point, 5 rebound, and 5 assist performance by a considerable margin.

For LeBron James, the 2007-08 season was all about the Nike Zoom LeBron V. Featuring the now-defunct Phyposite technology and double stacked Zoom Air cushioning, the LeBron V not only looked like a beast, but performed like one too. He broke out a holiday-appropriate white and gold colorway, while Bryant was in the Nike Zoom Kobe III, which is soon to be re-released.